137.3 Political Activity

137.3 Political Activity

A. Background

Furman University believes in the legitimacy and social importance of appropriate political activity by members of the faculty and acknowledges their right to participate in such endeavors.

B. Policy

Furman University endorses the basic statement on professional and political activity issued by the American Association of University Professors (AAUP Bulletin, 55 September, 1969, 388-389) which states among other things that "the college or university faculty member is a citizen, and like other citizens, should be free to engage in political activities so far as he or she is able to do so consistently with his or her obligations as a teacher and scholar."

C. Guidelines

1. Many kinds of political activity (e.g., holding part-time office in a political party, seeking election to any office under circumstances that do not require extensive campaigning, or serving by appointment or election in a part-time political office) are consistent with effective service as a member of a faculty. Other kinds of political activity (e.g., intensive campaigning for elective office, serving in a state legislature, or serving a limited term in a full-time position) may require that the professor seek a leave of absence.

2. Furman will provide institutional arrangements to permit political activity similar to those applicable to other public or private extra mural service. Such arrangements may include the reduction of the faculty member's workload or a leave of absence for the duration of an election campaign or a term of office, accompanied by equitable adjustment of compensation when necessary.

3. A faculty member seeking such leave should recognize that he or she has a primary obligation to the institution and to his or her growth as an educator and scholar; should be mindful of the problem which a leave of absence can create for administration, colleagues, and students; and should not abuse the privilege by too frequent or too late application or too extended a leave. Adjustments made, such as a reduction of work-load, should be limited to a reasonable period.

4. A leave of absence incident to political activity will come under the institution's normal rules and regulations for leaves or absences. Such a leave will not affect unfavorably the tenure status of a faculty member, except that time spent on such leave from academic duties will not count as probationary service. The terms of a leave and its effect on the professor's status will be set forth in writing.

5. In making political statements and participating in political activity the faculty member should attempt to make clear that the statements and activity are not those of the University.

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